Trek Domane SLR 7: The concept
"A bench among marathon bikes" was our verdict in our last test of the Domane (TOUR 1/2020). The new version, which Trek presented in autumn, is intended to seamlessly build on this. The centrepiece is still the Isospeed system, a joint between the top tube and seat tube that increases the suspension comfort of the carbon frame, which, according to the manufacturer, is 300 grams lighter than its predecessor.
The riding experience on the Trek Domane SLR 7
The fourth generation of Isospeed damping also works perfectly and absorbs impacts elegantly. However, there is no adjustment option and only at the rear, as Trek has dispensed with the front system. As a result, the front is significantly firmer than its predecessor, but thanks to the 32 millimetre tyres - there is room for 38 millimetres - and thick handlebar tape, it is still compliant. On long journeys, you benefit from the relatively upright riding position and high directional stability. However, the bike with the lighter frame is not noticeably livelier, and the difference in weight is also less than stated: The test specimen from 2019 weighed only 115 grams more on the TOUR scales than the current model.
That's what you get for your money
One of the best marathon bikes remains one of the most exclusive. The SLR 7 is functionally equipped with Shimano's Ultegra Di2 and components from Bontrager, but at a price of 10,499 euros it is only something for connoisseurs. Nevertheless: Trek also offers more affordable versions (SL) from 3699 euros, also with suspension.
The target group for the endurance bike
The Domane is predestined as a comfortable touring bike. Details such as the storage compartment in the down tube or the mounting points for mudguards extend the range of uses. Thanks to the large tyre clearance, gravel tracks can also be taken under the wheels.
The Trek Domane SLR 7
- Price: 10,499 Euro
- Weight: 8.0 kilos
- Frame/fork/steering bearing weight* 1093/411/65 grammes
- Frame sizes** 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62
- Seat/top tube/head tube 465/540/152 millimetres
- Stack/Reach/STR*** 568/373 millimetres/1.52
- Wheelbase/caster 1010/60 millimetres
Trek Domane SLR 7 - Equipment
- Drive/Circuit Shimano Ultegra Di2 (2x12; 50/34, 11-34 t.)
- Brakes Shimano Ultegra (160/160 mm)
- Wheels/tyres (weights)**** Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37/Bontrager R3 32 mm (f./h. 1,322/1,817 g)
Strengthshigh spring comfort, high-quality equipment, many frame sizes
Weaknessesvery expensive
The test results at a glance
In addition to the Trek Domane SLR 7, our endurance road bike test also included the Giant Defy Advanced 1, the Canyon Endurace CF 7 All-Road, the Cannondale Synapse Carbon 2 RL, the Cube Agree C:62 and the Specialized Roubaix Comp.
*Weighed weights.
**Manufacturer's specification, test size in bold.
***Stack/reach projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (stack to reach): 1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 a very upright riding position.
****Wheel weights including tyres, cassette, quick release/ thru axles and brake discs if applicable.
Julian Schultz
Editor
